2018 Nissan GT-R Overview

Let’s set the stage: the year is 1994, and Japanese automakers are in the midst of an era now considered the absolute pinnacle for tuner-oriented sports cars. At the time, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Toyota, and Nissan all offered sharp-looking sport compact vehicles, many of which featured rear- or all-wheel drive with the option of an extremely powerful turbocharged engine.

Today, all but one of those manufacturers has ceased producing beautiful performance-oriented monsters capable of instilling fear in the hearts of supercar owners.

While it may not be considered affordable, nor does it share DNA with Nissan’s sporty offerings in the United States during the ‘90s, there is no denying that the 2018 Nissan GT-R delivers supercar styling and performance at a comparative value.

The 2018 Nissan GT-R is available in four trim levels: Pure, Premium, Track Edition, and NISMO. All feature a twin-turbocharged, 3.8-liter V6 engine mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission that delivers power to all four wheels. Power output varies depending on trim, with Pure, Premium, and Track Edition models generating 565 horsepower and 467 lb.-ft. of torque, while NISMO models generate 600 horsepower and 481 lb.-ft. of torque.

For 2018, the Nissan GT-R only receives a few changes, the most notable being the addition of a new base trim, Pure. Items found in the GT-R Premium, such as the Bose audio and noise-cancellation systems as well as the option for a hand-stitched interior, are eliminated when Pure trim is selected.

Changes to the 2018 Nissan GT-R:

New Pure base trim added

Larger grille with matte chrome finish and mesh pattern

20 additional horsepower

Apple CarPlay added to NissanConnect infotainment system

Kuro Night interior package replaces Ivory interior package

What We Think

While it was never offered in the United States, the Nissan Skyline GT-R is still one of the most sought after performance vehicles of all time. With roots based in such heritage, it’s no shock the 2018 Nissan GT-R is one of the more impressive performance vehicles currently on the market.

Thanks to the addition of the new Pure trim, the GT-R is more affordable than ever, trimming $10,500 from the price by eliminating items that are unnecessary for a vehicle of this nature. No matter the version, the 2018 Nissan GT-R is sure to put a smile on your face, whether you’re sitting in the driver’s seat or watching one zoom by.